Ashoka, also known as ‘Ashoka the Great’, was the third ruler of the Mauryan Empire and one of the greatest emperors of India.
He is largely credited for spreading Buddhism in many parts of the world. He grew up to become an absolutely fearsome king with a vision to expand his empire continuously, which stretched across the Indian subcontinent leaving aside the southernmost parts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
However, it was the conquest of Kalinga, seen as the bloodiest and most lethal, which left him shattered and transformed him from a fierce vengeful ruler to a peaceful and non-violent emperor.
The reign of Ashoka presents in perfection all conditions as being favorable to the development of notable schools of art and literature.
Ashoka was a mighty Mauryan emperor, who expanded the borders and influence of the empire to its height. As he did, his architectural influence spread across India. Part of this was through his acumen for maintaining consolidated power.
